0. I can’t remember how old I am when people ask, or what the date is on a given day – both have to be worked out involving counting on fingers – but birthdays of people from my past are indelible inked on my brain. Happy birthday J.

1. The paper looks like it’ll do nothing bar generate plumes of smoke then suddenly, whumph! The kindling above it glows and cracks.

2. To have focus for a change, an ongoing task that captivates and excites me. In the background, other, diverse, ideas jostle to be next.

3. The loudest sniffs in the world as Lily looks for her treat-stuffed toy.